Kareem*, 10, Gaza

In a short time, he became interactive. He could play and interact with the children, he could draw.

Supporting children in conflict and displacement is especially challenging when they have additional needs. For 10-year-old Kareem, who has autism, stability, routine, and consistent support are essential to how he learns, communicates, and feels safe. 

Kareem was diagnosed after his father, Mansour*, noticed increasing anxiety, frequent outbursts, and limited speech. With specialist support, he began to make progress; learning to express himself and gradually engaging more with the world around him. 

But when the family was displaced from their home in northern Gaza due to the war, everything changed. Life in repeated displacement meant constant upheaval. Kareem became increasingly anxious and unsettled, and even basic routines like eating were disrupted.  

“Children with autism find it incredibly difficult when they have to move or live in a new environment,” Mansour says. “[Kareem] found himself in a new place, so he became more agitated… his nutrition changed, everything changed.” 

Over time, Kareem began to adjust, but challenges remained. He struggled with social interaction, often felt overwhelmed, and found it hard to engage with other children in the shelter. 

That changed when Mansour learned about a Save the Children Temporary Learning Centre (TLC), which supports children with their education during conflict. The centre provided Kareem with structure, routine, and tailored support from trained staff. Because of his additional needs, he was able to attend for extended hours, giving him the consistency he needed. 

Within weeks, Mansour began to see changes. Kareem became calmer and more engaged. He started interacting with other children, sharing, playing, and even drawing, something he had previously struggled with. 

“In a short time, he became interactive. He could play and interact with the children… he started to like drawing and playing like them,” Mansour says. “This gave us hope that he could be integrated into school.” 

“Thanks to the efforts of the staff, he started sharing and got socially involved,” Mansour adds. “He became happier. It gave him positive energy.”  

Today, Mansour speaks with pride about his son’s progress and curiosity and hopes for his future despite the ongoing uncertainty around them. 

Save the Children, through its Temporary Learning Centres, continues to support children like Kareem with safe spaces to learn, play, and regain a sense of stability amid conflict. 

*Name changed for protection. 

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